You must have heard about the much–talked coffee culture of Italy. And undoubtedly, of all the Italian cities, Venice has a crucial role in giving rise to the cafés across the European country. So, needless to say, if you’re planning a solo trip to Venice, make sure to set aside some time to explore the city’s cafes and coffee shops. 

In fact, it is one of the best ways to experience Venice. From traditional Italian espresso bars to modern, artisanal coffee shops, there are endless options for you to choose from to grab a bite to eat and people-watch. To make your café hunt in Venice easy, I have compiled a list of 10 must-visit cafés on your solo trip to Venice. So, without further ado, let me take you through the best cafés in Venice.

1. Caffe Florian – the first café in the city

If you want to go back in time to Venice, I highly recommend you pay a visit to Caffe Florian at least once. It lies in the iconic Piazza San Marco. Although it might be a little pricier, it remains a must-visit for any coffee lover or history buff visiting Venice. 

Established in 1720, Caffe Florian is the oldest in the city. It has a rich history of hosting some of the most famous artists and writers like Charles Dickens, Lord Byron, and other intellectuals of the past. 

Today, it’s a popular spot for tourists to enjoy a coffee and soak in the essence of history. The cafe is also known for its delicious pastries and hot chocolate, so be sure to try a treat there.

Timing: 09:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Address: P.za San Marco, 57, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

2. Caffe Lavena for an upscale experience 

Another cafe in the Piazza San Marco, Caffe Lavena, is another historic spot serving coffee to Venetians and tourists alike since 1750. It’s known for its beautiful decor and elegant atmosphere, making it a great spot for a more upscale coffee experience. 

In addition to its coffee and pastries, Caffe Lavena also serves a variety of cocktails and light meals. Thus, it is a great spot to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. However, the only downside of this café is just like its neighbour Caffe Florian. It is expensive.

Timing: 09:30 AM to 12:00 AM

Address: P.za San Marco, 133/134, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

3. Caffe del Doge near the Rialto area

Caffe del Doge is just a few minutes from the iconic landmark of Venice – Rialto Bridge. It is a stylish and modern cafe, popular with locals and tourists alike. And, I think the best part about this café in Venice is its laid-back atmosphere, even after being situated in such a touristy area.

The cafe is known for its high-quality coffee and pastries, as well as its sandwiches and salads. Whether you want to start your day or just have a lunchtime snack, this café has your back. But for whatever reason, you step into this cute café in Venice and try their coffee. Otherwise, your experience here will be incomplete!

Timing: 07:00 AM to 06:30 PM

Address: Rialto, Calle dei Cinque, 609, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy

4. All’ Arco – a family run café

All’ Arco is a popular spot for coffee and aperitivo (Italian happy hour) in the San Polo neighbourhood of Venice. It is a small, family-run cafe serving traditional Venetian Cicchetti (small bites) and wine.

The cafe is known for its artisanal coffee roasted on-site and its delicious pastries and sandwiches. The outdoor seating area is a great spot to people-watch and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Timing: 10:00 AM to 02:30 PM

Address: S. Polo, 436, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy

5. Torrefazione Cannaregio – perfect for travellers on a budget

If you’re in the Cannaregio neighbourhood and looking for a relaxing, budget-friendly place to grab a cup of coffee and a snack, Cafe Torrefazione is worth a visit. It is known especially for its freshly roasted, expertly brewed coffee and delicious pastries and sandwiches.

The cafe is small and intimate, with wooden tables and chairs. Its warm and welcoming atmosphere lures in travellers from all across the end. Besides, you can also purchase coffee bags from here and carry them as a souvenir on your way back home.

In short, the friendly staff, high-quality coffee and food, and cosy atmosphere make Cafe Torrefazione a true gem in the heart of Venice.

Timing: 08:00 AM to 01:00 PM

Address: Fondamenta dei Ormesini, 2804, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy

6. Pasticceria Marchini Time – the vintage cafe 

Cafe Marchini Time in Venice is a popular cafe in the historic San Marco neighbourhood. This café is also one of the cheapest cafés in Venice. The cafe’s interior is small and cosy. As soon as you enter, you will be greeted with a vintage feel. The walls here are adorned with old black and white photographs.

The café is well-known for its delicious pastries, sandwiches, and, of course, its rich, full-bodied espresso. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a creamy latte, you’ll find something to suit your taste. And do taste test their croissants. They are buttery and flaky!

Timing: 07:30 AM to 08:00 PM

Address: Campo S. Luca, 4589, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy 

7. An all-day Caffé Rosso 

Caffé Rosso lies in the district of Dorsoduro. It is an all-day café and offers delicious tramezzino, unpretentious spritz, and many other things. This café fits the brief of a perfectly cute little local café.

The interior of this place is nice and airy. You’ll come across different age groups of people here. So it is an interesting place to catch up with locals. 

Timing: 07:00 AM to 01:00 AM 

Address: Sestiere Dorsoduro, 2963, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy

8. Pasticceria Rosa Salva for the sweet tooth

Pasticceria Rosa Salva is a popular cafe located in Venice. It is known for its delicious pastries, bomboloni (a stuffed donut), and homemade gelato. The cafe is a great place to stop for a sweet treat or a refreshing drink.

A Tip: If you’re on a budget, avoid sitting in the outdoor area, it’s costlier!

Timing: 08:00 AM to 08:00 PM 

Address: Sestiere di S. Marco, 950, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

9. Sullaluna – an exceptional café in Venice

If you’re looking for a café to have a unique experience in Venice, add Sullaluna to your itinerary. It combines a coffee shop with a bookshop, offering an intellectual atmosphere for travellers to relax and enjoy a good read and a cup of coffee. 

The walls at this café are adorned with bookshelves filled with various books in various languages, ranging from fiction to non-fiction to travel guides. Comfortable armchairs and tables are scattered throughout the space, inviting customers to unwind with a book or a cup of coffee! Doesn’t that sound like a perfect gateway for a bookworm? 

Oh, and do try their homemade cakes and vegetarian bites. Also, make sure to capture some cute Instagram-worthy snaps at this café. 

Timing: 08:30 AM to 09:00 PM except on Tuesdays

Address: Fondamenta de la Misericordia, 2535, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy

10. Pasticceria Dal Mas – the busiest café in Venice

One of the crowded cafés in Venice is Pasticceria Dal Mas. No matter at what time of the day you visit this café, you’ll see people coming in and going out. It is popular for its delicious pastries, sandwiches, and, of course, its heavenly Italian desserts. Do try their almond brioche and pistachio flavour cake. It is delicious!

Timing: 06:30 AM to 07:30 PM

Address: Rio Terà Lista di Spagna, 150, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy

What is your pick from these must-visit cafes in Venice?

All these cafés are special in their way. So, you can choose according to your preference and budget. And the best part about these cafés is that you will come across them often while walking through the streets of Venice. 

Please check out my blog post to plan your solo travel to Venice.

You can also refer to my blog post on Venice’s best and cheap local eateries.

Until next time, happy travels!